Police believe that Norma Bell was murdered overnight between the 2nd and 3rd of April.

Following her death a blaze was started at her home.

Norma Bell was found dead in her house in Hartlepool after a fire.

Forensic search have been ongoing at the address for three days.

Officers have conducted a search of gardens within the street close to Norma Bell’s house.

Officer looks in bushes before taking a closer look

Det Supt Alastair Simpson said: “If anyone has noticed that someone they know has come into some money over the last couple of days and is concerned about a change in their behaviour, it is really important that they contact police.

“Again, I would appeal to anyone with private CCTV in the area to check their footage and see if there is anything on there between Saturday evening and Sunday morning which could assist us with our investigation.”